Spiced Christmas Jam is the ultimate holiday treat, combining the tartness of cranberries with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. The fresh orange juice and zest add a burst of citrus, making this jam not only delicious but also versatile. It’s great as a spread on toast, a topping for pancakes, or even paired with cheese and crackers for a festive appetizer. This jam also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Easy to make and full of holiday flavor, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite!
This Spiced Christmas Jam is the perfect holiday treat, combining the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you're spreading it on toast or serving it with cheese and crackers, it adds a festive touch to any meal. With fresh orange juice and zest, it has a bright citrus note that makes it extra special. It’s easy to make and also ideal for gifting during the holiday season. This jam is guaranteed to become a holiday favorite in your home.
INGREDIENTS
- 12 ounces cranberries (about 4 cups): The base of this jam, providing a natural tartness that pairs well with the spices.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cranberries and balances their tartness.
- ½ cup fresh orange juice: Adds a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the cranberries and spices.
- Zest from one orange: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the citrus notes in the jam.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, making the jam feel festive.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A hint of nutmeg deepens the spice profile and complements the other ingredients.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS SPICED CHRISTMAS JAM
- Festive Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberries and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes this jam perfect for the holiday season.
- Easy to Make: With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this jam comes together quickly, making it a great homemade gift or addition to your holiday table.
- Versatile: You can spread it on toast, serve it with cheese and crackers, or even use it as a glaze for roasted meats.
- Perfect for Gifting: Pack this jam in cute jars with a ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious holiday gift for friends and family.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This jam stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the holiday season.
VARIATIONS
- Extra Spices: Add ginger or cloves to give the jam a deeper, spicier flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries.
- Mixed Berry Twist: Mix in raspberries or strawberries with the cranberries for a more complex berry flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Use the jam as a glaze for roasted meats like turkey or ham for a sweet and spiced twist on your holiday main course.
- Citrus Kick: Add extra orange zest or even a splash of lemon juice for a brighter, tangier jam.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Rinse the cranberries and carefully inspect them, discarding any that are bruised or spoiled. Set the remaining cranberries aside.
- Step 2:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, and fresh orange juice. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Step 3:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the cranberries burst, the mixture will thicken to a jam-like consistency.
- Step 4:
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- Step 5:
- Carefully transfer the jam into a clean pint-sized mason jar. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing and storing. The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month or frozen for up to three months.
Serving and Storage Tips
- This Spiced Christmas Jam is perfect for holiday breakfasts, spread on toast, scones, or even pancakes. It also pairs wonderfully with cheese and crackers for a festive appetizer or snack.
- Store the jam in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to one month. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze the jam for up to 3 months.
- If you're giving it as a gift, make sure to add a festive label and ribbon to the jar for a thoughtful and delicious homemade present.
Helpful Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness of the jam by adding more or less sugar depending on your taste preference.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices—ginger and cloves are great additions for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- This jam can also be used as a glaze for roasted meats, like ham or turkey, adding a sweet and spiced layer of flavor.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: “Always use fresh citrus zest for the best flavor—it adds brightness that really makes the jam pop.”
- Chef Jamie Oliver: “For a smoother texture, you can blend the jam slightly after cooking to break down the cranberries further.”
- Chef Martha Stewart: “Make sure to sterilize your jars properly if you're planning to store the jam for a longer period or give it as a gift.”